Solo travel trends rise among women seeking self-discovery

Solo travel is experiencing a significant shift, particularly among women over 45 who are using journeys for self-discovery and reclaiming personal identity during midlife transitions. A study by JourneyWoman indicates that 61 per cent of women over 50 prefer solo travel, with the market projected to double by 2035.

As travelers seek more autonomy, specialized services are emerging to address the logistical needs of solo adventurers. In destinations like Lisbon, travelers are utilizing services such as Smiler to book local professional photographers, allowing them to capture high-quality memories of landmarks like Alfama or Cais das Colunas without the need for a travel companion.